Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide sterilization is a low temperature sterilization process commonly used to sterilize heat-sensitive devices. This process involves exposing the items to hydrogen peroxide vapor or liquid, which effectively destroys microorganisms by disrupting their cell walls and essential components. Hydrogen peroxide sterilization is known for its compatibility with a wide range of materials and its ability to penetrate intricate spaces. It is often utilized in settings where heat-sensitive or moisture-sensitive materials are involved, as it can be used at lower temperatures. However, it requires careful handling and monitoring to ensure effective sterilization and the safety of both the products and the operators.
How Does Hydrogen Peroxide Plasma Sterilization Work?
The hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilizer is first filled with the objects to be sterilized. The basic hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization cycle consists of four stages (vacuum generation, H2O2 injection, diffusion, and plasma discharge) and takes approximately 1 to 3 hours. Aeration is not required. After the cycle is complete, the sterilized objects are removed (batch processing).
How Does Hydrogen Peroxide Sterilize?
Hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization inactivates microorganisms primarily by the combined use of hydrogen peroxide gas and the generation of free radicals (hydroxyl and hydroproxyl free radicals) during the plasma phase of the cycle.
Where is Hydrogen Peroxide Sterilization Used?
Mostly used to sterilize reusable medical devices.
How Does Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) Sterilization Work?
The VHP sterilizer is first filled with the objects to be sterilized. The basic VHP sterilization cycle consists of three stages (conditioning including vacuum generation, H2O2 injection, and aeration) and takes approximately 1 1/2 hours, including aeration time (removal of H2O2). After the aeration is complete, the sterilized objects are removed (batch processing).
What Dictates If Hydrogen Peroxide Sterilization Can Be Used?
Hydrogen Peroxide sterilization is suited for objects that cannot sustain the high temperature and moisture necessary for steam (autoclave) sterilization.
Which Materials Work Best With Steam Sterilization?
Due to its low temperature operation, sterilization process is well suited for medical devices with embedded electronics. Hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization should not be used for objects containing semiconductors.